Benson Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Benson County, North Dakota, had a population of 5,964. The median age was approximately 32 years, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female. The county is predominantly Native American (56.2%), followed by White (33.1%), with small percentages of Hispanic/Latino (2.5%), Black (0.3%), and other races. Children under 18 made up about 32% of the population, highlighting a relatively young demographic.

Benson County, ND, had 3,892 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations in Minnewaukan and other towns. In the 2020 presidential race, voters favored the Republican candidate with 67% of the vote. Key issues include agriculture and infrastructure. The County Auditor’s office administers elections, overseeing compliance and ballot processing. Benson County voters predominantly lean Republican, with Democratic presence in some precincts. The county operates 6 polling locations, and early voting is available. Election challenges include turnout—41% in 2022—and ensuring ballot access for rural residents.

Benson County, ND, has a homeownership rate of around 66%, with renters making up the remaining 34%. The median home value is approximately $96,000, while median gross rent is about $680 monthly. Housing types primarily consist of single-family homes, with some mobile and multi-family units. Communities such as Fort Totten and Minnewaukan feature modest neighborhoods. Benson County's property taxes are relatively low, averaging 1.1% of assessed home value, equating to roughly $1,050 annually on a median-priced home. The housing market remains stable, with slight annual value increases around 2-3%.

As of 2023, Benson County, ND has an employment rate of approximately 52.6%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (23.4%), Educational Services (17.8%), and Public Administration (11.2%). The predominant occupation types include Office & Administrative Support (19.5%) and Education, Training & Library (14.7%). About 80% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 14.1 minutes. Most employment is local, but roughly 15% commute to neighboring counties such as Ramsey and Eddy.

Benson County, ND, serves around 1,400 K-12 students in approximately 8 public schools, including high schools like Minnewaukan High. The county’s high school graduation rate is about 83%, though only roughly 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools offer vocational and adult education programs, with average state test proficiency scores in reading and math below the North Dakota average. School safety is a priority, with low reported incident rates. Educational resources include Native American studies and special support services to enhance learning for the county’s diverse student population.

Benson County, ND, reports relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county recorded approximately 48 total crimes, including 7 violent crimes and 41 property crimes, equating to a crime rate of about 8.2 per 1,000 residents. The sheriff’s office actively encourages community crime reporting and promotes public safety initiatives. Recent data shows a steady or slightly declining trend in both theft and assault cases, reflecting ongoing local law enforcement efforts to ensure safety and prompt response to incidents.